Arab allies offer military support against ISIS militants
The fight is taking place in Iraq and Syria. The plan is coming together in Paris. World leaders gather tomorrow to address the threat from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and today, the State Department said they are getting more help.
Secretary of State John Kerry says some Arab nations have offered to launch airstrikes against militants from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS, also known as ISIL).
The U.S. says it has found Arab nations willing to commit military assets - some even ground troops - but says it's too early to name specific countries.
Kerry says he expects regional allies to help on a number of fronts. They range from humanitarian aid to going after ISIS finances and it's sophisticated propaganda machine. .
"Well we're not looking to put troops on the ground," he said. "There are some who have offered to do so, but we are not looking for that at this moment anyway."
But it's securing military commitments that will be most critical as administration officials continue to promise there will be no U.S. combat troops in Iraq or Syria.
White House Chief of staff Denis McDonough said on Face the Nation, it will be up to regional partners and Syrian fighters.
"We're going to provide our unique capabilities and airstrikes and intelligence and training and then it will be up to the Syrians on that side of the border to finish the job," said McDonough.
One of those allies, could be Jordan, according to Republican Representative Michael McCaul.
"I met with the Prince of Jordan just two days ago who said he is ready today to put his troops into Syria to fight ISIS," said McCaul.
Congress is expected to take up the president's 500 million dollar request to train and equip moderate Syrian rebels this week. The measure is expected to pass but not without controversy.
"There has been no urgency," said McCaul. "You know, this threat has been out there for over a year. Finally, the White House started to pay attention to it."
And Senator Lindsey Graham told Fox News the White House can't outsource national security.
"It's going to take an army to beat an army," Graham said. "This idea we'll never have any boots on the ground to defeat them in Syria is fantasy."
The next few days will be critical. President Obama will be meeting General John Allen, his envoy, to build the coalition against ISIS. He has his work cut out for him.
On Wednesday the President will be in Tampa meeting with Central command. And Secretary Kerry and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel will be testifying before Congress later in the week.